Category Archives: Life

How to Create a Cozy Reading Nook for the Holidays

There’s truly no place like home for the holidays, and as the temperatures drop, I’m most definitely craving all things cozy! During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, there’s really nothing better than cozying up with a good book, sipping on something warm, and being in your comfiest of clothing. That’s exactly the reason I set out to create this cozy reading nook in my living room, all decked out with holiday cheer!

How to Create a Reading Nook | Seattle Lifestyle Blog

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx on behalf of Harlequin

Inspired by holiday classics and new releases from Harlequin books, I thought it was the perfect time of year to create a cozy reading corner in our living room! If like me, you’re feeling a bit stir crazy at home and are craving warmth, coziness, and the festive cheer that comes with the holiday season, then you’ll love having your own reading spot to do just that.

If you’re looking to cheer up your space and create a special reading corner this holiday season, or any time of year, then read on for ideas for your reading nook!

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Shop Local for the Holidays: 101+ Best Gift Ideas from Seattle Businesses + Makers

2020 has been a challenging year, and like everything else this year, the holiday season promises to feel different too. As holiday gatherings move virtually and annual traditions are adapted for the new normal, I encourage you to change up your holiday shopping habits, too! Now more than ever, local businesses need our support. Many of them have adapted to these trying times by offering shipping, curbside pickups, and delivery to make buying gifts from Seattle easier than ever. Why not shop local and get the best gift ideas from Seattle businesses this year?!

Best Gift Ideas from Seattle | Shop Local Holiday Gift Guide 2020

Disclosure: Some items included in this post have been provided for editorial consideration. Additionally, some links in this post are affiliate links. If you click them and make a purchase, I may make a small commission. All opinions are my own!

That’s exactly why I wanted to lend my support to small businesses this holiday season. Not only here on the blog, but also with the holiday shopping I am doing, too. I know the holiday season is going to look different this year. However, I’m hopeful that by putting our dollars back into our local economy, we can help small businesses stay afloat.

If you’re trying to do the same and shop locally this holiday season, I’ve rounded up hundreds of gift ideas from Seattle for everyone on your list!

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13 Last Minute Halloween Costume Ideas

It’s almost Halloween, and it sure feels different this year! We normally are anticipating upwards of 75 trick-or-treaters, but this year, we aren’t sure we’ll have any. Instead of our usual take-out and watching for trick-or-treaters routine, we’re planning a Halloween movie marathon at home instead! And of course, dressing up during a pandemic is a little different, which is why I was inspired to share these easy, budget-friendly last minute Halloween costume ideas.

DIY Bad Witch and Good Witch Halloween Costume

Last-Minute Halloween Costume Ideas

It can feel a bit pointless to put a ton of extra effort into the holiday this year. But, with Halloween parties moving to Zoom and virtual Halloween Happy Hours this week happening at workplaces around the country, I thought it would be fun to round up my favorite easy last minute Halloween costumes! Each of these costumes only requires a couple of items and most can be easily made from pieces you might already have in your closet!

As we navigate our new normal, I hope these ideas for last minute Halloween costumes are helpful!

Disclosure: While this post is not sponsored, it does contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may make a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions are my own!

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Cozy up in a Pillow Fort to Celebrate Christmas in Summer

What month is it again? If it wasn’t for the streak of 80 degree days we’ve been having, you could tell me it was November, and I would probably believe you. I don’t think I’ve ever spent quite so much time at home than I have over the last five or so months! Because of that, I’m always looking for new, fun things to do at home, and recently reminded of building pillow forts as a child! I wondered, could I make a pillow fort for adults?!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx on behalf of Harlequin

How to Make Pillow Fort for Adults

I’m sure you might also recall similar childhood memories of running around your home, collecting all the cushions from the couch, spare blankets, and throw pillows. Then, you’d pile up all the pillows and cushions, throw blankets across them, and have the perfect, cozy spot to play in, read, or nap for the rest of the day.

So I thought, why not recreate a pillow fort for adults?!

If you’re feeling a bit stir crazy at home, then like me, you might be craving the comfort and joy that comes with cozying up with a good book in the fall. Or, maybe you feel like you want to skip straight through to the most wonderful time of year. Either way, why not treat yourself!

Are you in?! Grab your favorite Harlequin Christmas book (or find one to read on the list below!) and join me as I share some pillow fort ideas, perfect for adults, that you can recreate at home to celebrate Christmas in Summer!

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Summertime Essentials for a Staycation at the Lake

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx. All my opinions are my own!

This summer, it’s all about the staycation! That’s why I was so excited for a little weekend relaxation at nearby Lake Roesiger, where my friend Megan’s family owns the cutest little lakehouse. Of course, I had to pack all of the summertime essentials for the perfect day away from home!

Summertime Essentials

It was a beautiful warm sunny day as I packed up my car with a giant pool float and a bag overflowing with my summertime essentials to enjoy lakeside! On the list are the obvious, of course: a cute swimsuit, a giant beach towel, a sun hat, stylish sunglasses, SPF, and a change of clothes for later. However, I’ve rounded up a few additional things that made this warm summer day even more enjoyable.

For everything you need for a day at the lake and all of my must-have summertime essentials, keep reading!

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